International SEO – Translation vs. Localization

International SEO – with businesses expanding globally and breaking the cultural and geographical boundaries around them, a business plan and efficient strategies are required to be in place. Most importantly, with business expansion, the need for translation services arises. These translation services should be carried out by experienced and professional translators who understand the need of international SEO and website translation for a business that is pursuing growth, reaching new markets and have the relevant SEO experience.

What is international SEO?

International SEO plays a crucial role in businesses that have a higher market reach and are expanding beyond geographical boundaries. Such businesses need to be highly visible on search engines which identify the countries that are being targeted and the different languages the company conducts business in. It involves understanding the international audience profile, international search status as well as the presence that the business and its website have already established.

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The rules of international SEO

International SEO may seem like a complicated and rigorous process, but if done effectively it can work wonders for your business. The key here is to follow rules that have been established and are guaranteed to work. The first and foremost step is to conduct research and see what the current international visibility your business has and how much traffic is being generated from different countries.

Relevant tools are also needed to enhance the competency of international SEO. Google Analytics is a great tool in order to check how well a website is doing in the market, along with the Google Webmasters, Keyword Planner and also the correct use of Meta descriptions and keywords becomes important. Google Analytics can be used to find out volumes, trends, conversion rates and other relevant statistics that you need to know about your business and its web presence.

Why is translation not the same as localization?

Translation and localization are two entirely different processes, and failure to recognize the distinction between the two is what ends up in significant problems when dealing with content for different markets. Localization is a broader term under which the process of translation comes in but it is important to understand how exactly they differ.

Translation

Consists of changing of words from one language to another

Changing the source version into a translated version which is language specific to the target market

Might not take into account cultural nuances and idioms

Word-to-word translation can lead to the original message being completely altered in the other language

It does not take into account the adaption of the context and culture while translating

Localization

In localization you are not only translating, but also adapting the material for foreign markets.

Localization takes into account the cultural differences that persist when dealing with different markets and audiences, and the local requirements that need to be considered.

It requires an understanding of the target market’s cultural and linguistic background

Makes the target audience feel that the content was generated specifically for them

Hence, localization is both translation and adaptation

The importance of localization for international SEO

When localizing, the translator does not focus on literal translation only but is able to adapt the language, assess the relevant target audience and keep in mind the cultural implications of the message or document. This comes from an in-depth understanding of different languages and cultures that the translator has knowledge of. This ensures that the content that is going out in the market is meeting the local requirements of that particular audience, is custom built for the end user and is easily understood in that language.

The factor that can be considered most important in regards to the end result of localization is that the original meaning of the document is not lost. It ensures that no miscommunication takes place on a global level, which can lead to loss of customers and clients along with creating a bad name for the business. In some cases even brand names, icons and logos can have a completely different meaning in another context. So in order to make international SEO as effective as possible, localization is a concept that cannot be ignored.

The impact of international SEO on your business

Through international SEO, your business now has a chance to venture into markets that were not possible before. This indicates growth on new levels, a chance to make your business as well known as possible and serve multilingual clients around the globe. It is an essential marketing tool for any business that wants to create a name globally, not just at a local level.

As long as your business has the relevant resources to implement international SEO, and cater to a large market, a lot of positive outcomes can then result for the business. Such an investment can reap huge profits for the company. The strength and user-friendliness of your website will be enhanced. It helps in developing a thorough understanding of the market and how search results differ according to location. Your business can now have increased visibility and meet its goals more successfully.

Growth and Future Outlook with International SEO

Research indicates that 90% of internet users prefer online content that is in their own native language. This kind of user friendliness for websites that are operating across borders generates traffic and establishes relationships with customers and clients. All this is achieved through international SEO despite language and cultural boundaries which is why the growth of its impact is evident.

This is also why professional translation agencies are needed which can provide these services by hiring experienced translators, who understand the importance of international SEO and localization compared to the simple translation that most companies carry out.

Slavis is offering complete and multilingual solutions for all such needs regarding international SEO, localization and translation of content. By hiring experienced linguistic professionals and SEO specialists, Slavis can do the job for you in no time and contribute valuably to your business.